St Mary’s Diocesan school for girls appoints new headmistress
Odell Howard will take up her new position as head of the all-girls school next year.
St Mary’s Diocesan school for girls will be welcoming a new principal next year.
Odelle Howard, who is currently the Head of College at Reddam House Waterfall in KwaZulu-Natal, will take up her position at the all-girls school as of next year.
Chairman of the board of governors, Allan Kannemeyer said Howard was appointed based on the unanimous recommendation of the selection committee, which included the vice-chairman and members of the board of governors.
“She is the most suitable, combining educational leadership experience with a powerful commitment to inclusivity and to preparing young women to be leaders and critical thinkers in a rapidly changing world.”
ALSO READ: Pretoria Boys High appoints new headmaster
Kannemeyer said the decision to appoint Howard was finalised before a protest by learners decrying alleged racism at the school last month.
“Subsequent events have only reinforced our view that Howard’s passion for educating the whole person, her commitment to transformation and diversity, and exceptional results in previous positions make her the ideal person to lead St Mary’s,” said Kannemeyer.
“The board of governors is delighted to have identified a leader who is approachable, warm, visible in the role, and a passionate advocate for students.”
Her experience in teaching has earned her a name among her peers.
Howard obtained her Higher Diploma in Education from the University of KwaZulu Natal, and an Honours Degree in Education Leadership and Management from the University of Johannesburg.
She also completed the Leadership Development Programme at Wits Business School and has received formal training in counselling.
She started her educational career at Coastal KwaZulu Natal College, teaching a science bridging course to post-matric students unable to qualify for studies in Engineering.
ALSO READ: Headmaster celebrates birthday with a difference
The mother of two then took up a concurrent position, teaching physical sciences over weekends to children from historically disadvantaged educational backgrounds.
Her love for all things science-related translated to a move to Eskom to train teachers on how to teach physical science while changing misconceptions around the subject.
Howard accepted a position as head of department in physical sciences at St Benedict’s College in Pinetown.
She later moved to St Stithians College to manage the department of physical science of the Thandulwazi Maths and Science Academy.
Howard’s passion for student wellness led her to serve as Deputy Head of Student Affairs at St Peter’s College.
After seven years at St Peter’s College, she accepted the position of Head of College at Reddam House Waterfall.
“Howard’s dedication to learners and expertise with both school leadership and student learning are all qualities that the board believed were essential in our next Head of School,” Kannemeyer said.
“She is deeply committed to making the much-needed changes that will meet the needs of all DSG students and educators, while preserving the traditions and culture that we love.”
She is married to Fabian, who is Deputy Head of Academics at St David’s Marist Inanda.
Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites:
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
